“Ah, well,” said Battle lightly, “my shoulders are broad.”

He shook his head and sighed.

“I must get to the telephone at once. Excuse me, gentlemen. I’m sorry, Mr. Lomax⁠—I feel I’ve rather bungled this business. But it’s been puzzling, more puzzling than you know.”

He strode hurriedly from the room.

“Come into the garden,” said Bundle to Jimmy. “I want to talk to you.”

They went out together through the window. Jimmy stared down at the lawn, frowning.

“What’s the matter?” asked Bundle.

Jimmy explained the circumstances of the pistol throwing.